Principle #1: Everyone is watching

This is an excerpt from my book: The Pied Piper Principle; Lead, and They Will Follow. Although the book is written for leaders, this particular principle can be followed by everyone. Think about your actions among your customers, colleagues and friends, and read on.

“One of the most important ideas to keep in mind, is all leaders are role models. You are constantly setting examples…both good and bad. Everyone is always watching you – especially your staff.

Your employees will repeat what you say, write as you write and even dress as you dress. Therefore, you must constantly remind yourself that you are a role model. Just as sports figures influence their fans you, too, are an important influence on the people that surround you in the work place.

And, everything you discuss speaks loudly as to the type of person you really are. If you laugh at an off color joke, you are setting an example. If you gossip, use bad language or make fun of others you are letting everyone see exactly what you find acceptable in the workplace.

As a leader, you need to accept the responsibility that goes with the job. You must be willing to keep a great deal to yourself. You must not risk your reputation on making one poor remark or hasty comment.

One tip to keep in mind when practicing role modeling is to pretend a video camera is filming your every move. It is with you in staff meetings, when you are having a private conversation with a direct report or while spending time on a phone call. Imagine this video will be played during your next review, at the next Company meeting or even on that evening’s nightly news. By using this as a reminder, you will begin to make leadership decisions based on being a role model.

Each day, with each interaction you have with another person, you are developing and solidifying your reputation. And, it is vital to remember that while this is going on – everyone is watching.”